Discover insider tips, travel guides, and inspiring stories for your next adventure in Japan
The evening performance of the stage event SOUND THEATRE x Natsume's Book of Friends, taking place on July 18, 2026 in Tokyo, will be streamed live exclusively on U-NEXT. Additional after-talk performers and new merchandise items have also been revealed.
Sumikkogurashi has been named the official support character for the special exhibition "Nanto Butsuga," a joint project with the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, held at the Nara National Museum from July 18 to September 13, 2026. Collaboration merchandise featuring the characters alongside Buddhist masterpieces will be sold at the venue.
QINOCOP, the anime merchandise brand run jointly by Kyudap Co., Ltd. and InoCo Co., Ltd., has started pre-order sales for new TV anime "Summer Pockets" merchandise featuring original newly drawn illustrations. A popup event will also be held at Shinjuku Marui Annex from July 25 to August 2, 2026.
The beloved Tabekko Dobutsu character experience event returns for its 5th installment, opening July 10, 2026 at ASOBUILD YOKOHAMA COAST in Yokohama, featuring a massive circular LED display, interactive zones, and limited-edition goods.
Sunshine 60 Observatory's Tenbou Park transforms into an indoor summer retreat from July 9 to August 31, 2026, featuring about 550 sunflowers, wind chimes, seasonal drinks, and hands-on workshops.
Tentaka Shuzo, a sake brewery in Tochigi Prefecture, has launched a collaboration honey mead with Umamusume: Pretty Derby featuring Tokai Teio. Sales begin June 23, 2026, at 3:00 PM via the official online shop.
On July 15, 2026, The Balvenie hosts an exclusive tasting event at The Strings by InterContinental Tokyo, featuring four whiskies aged in different casks paired with a special menu by Executive Chef Jesus Nino.
THE MEAT FES. BUFFET! SUMMER RECHARGE runs from July 14 to September 3, 2026 at the buffet restaurant The Cafe on the ground floor, featuring beef, pork, chicken, and lamb dishes prepared in a variety of styles.
The Prince Kyoto Takaragaike is serving a Japanese-style afternoon tea set featuring Fukujuen green teas paired with seasonal sweets and savories at the historic "Saryo" tearoom, available on select dates from July to August 2026.
Toba Kokusai Hotel in Mie Prefecture has added a new size 5 (15 cm) plain cheesecake to its longstanding lineup, responding to growing demand for smaller portions suitable for everyday use and small gatherings.
Toba Kokusai Hotel in Mie Prefecture is serving a peach-filled afternoon tea inspired by the theme of "Shangri-La" at The Lobby Lounge, available from July 1 to August 31, 2026, with reservations required by 6:00 PM the day before.
Tokyo Dome City is hosting "Chill Out Night" from July 18, 2026, featuring illuminated lawn areas, outdoor cinema, a jazz bar event, the JFA official beer garden, and more summer evening entertainment.